Stage-struck schoolboy sets up entertainment business aged just 14

Fiona Thompson

A schoolboy aiming to turn his passion for holiday park entertainment into a career has launched his own business.

Cameron Finn became a fan of the Fun Stars at the Haven resorts when his parents took him away on breaks.

Cameron pictured at the Ryhope Workingmens Club night.

With his eye on an audition for a place as one of its cast once he reaches 18, the Venerable Bede student has set up his own venture to draw in an audience and generate funds which he is reinvesting in new mascots and kit to run his shows.

The 14-year-old, from Ryhope, has his own version of the entertainers’ outfits and already has a Mickey and Minnie Mouse, with plans to add more characters to his collection for future performances.

Cam’s Mascots has already performed to a sold-out crowd at Ryhope Workingmen’s Club, which also featured young singers, entertainers, games and a buffet.

He was involved in the Christmas lights switch on in Ryhope, with the Disney characters meeting the crowds.

It’s all he’s ever wanted to do since he was little, to entertain people.

Yvonne Finn

The characters have also appeared at a wedding, while toy and chocolate hampers are also put together as a side line.

He said: “I just wanted to do it, so I decided to do it.

“It’s been really good so far.

“I’ve been doing a leaflet drop to let people know.

“I really enjoy the entertainment part, because I get paid for having fun.

“When I was up on stage at the show, I had so much fun.

“There were lots of age groups and I could see they, there were lots of smiles.”

Cameron is building on his experiences from shows he has seen at the company’s Blue Dolphin, Primrose Valley and Reighton Sands parks in North Yorkshire as well as the one at Haggerston Castle.

He has made friends with many of the team, with the Fun Stars pulling him on stage to join in routines.

Mum Yvonne Finn, 52, who is a hospital cleaner, said: “It’s marvellous, given he’s doing it at his age.

“It’s all he’s ever wanted to do since he was little, to entertain people.